Sending parcels abroad via the Post office - saving money tip!

housesitter

I sent a parcel yesterday to OH mother in New Zealand as it's her birthday at teh end of the month.
So the contents were a big box of Yorkshire Tea, some marmite and a card.

Off to the PO to send it and I'm asked if there is a letter or card with more than five words inside.
I ask why on earth it matters:


Apparently, there is a discounted rate for international parcels to certain destinations. If the parcel comtains no correspondance then it can go via that rate.
If it contains a card then it has to go as the letter rate.

Difference in price ? 12.75 for the tea and marmite on it's own, or 19quid with the letter enclosed!!!

So, I opened it, removed letter/card, and posted it seperately for 72 pence.


Why bother admitting to it having a letter enclosed?
Well, if customs open it, they will charge the receiving person the difference in price.



Someone might find that useful to know.

MothballsWallet

When I was in NZ, I actually sent a package to Mrs MbW in Russia with some stuff for her (including some presents), weighing about 2.75kg - took 4 weeks to deliver, and cost me about 25 quid.

The same parcel from the UK to exactly the same destination would have been around 45 quid with Parcelforce.

housesitter

Postage rates for the UK are a rip off.
I send a lot of stuff to the USA. I have used a few times a re-shipper. He sends stuff via the Danish postal system somehow. It's a lot cheaper than UK rates.